Information processing method, information processing apparatus, washing system, and washing apparatus

ABSTRACT

An information processing method performed with a processor includes determining whether a second dispensing amount of detergent to be dispensed in a washing apparatus in a scheduled first washing event falls below a threshold based on a remaining amount of the detergent in a detergent container of the washing apparatus and a first dispensing amount set for one washing event for washing a washing target, changing a third dispensing amount determined based on the first dispensing amount to be dispensed into the washing apparatus in a second washing event preceding the first washing event to a fourth dispensing amount equaling or exceeding the threshold when the second dispensing amount is determined to fall below the threshold, outputting information representing the fourth dispensing amount, and causing the washing apparatus to dispense the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent in the second washing event.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an information processing method, aninformation processing apparatus, a washing system, and a washingapparatus relating to washing a washing target.

2. Description of the Related Art

Various washing apparatuses, such as a washing machine or a dishwasher,have been developed. Some of these washing apparatuses have a mechanismthat automatically dispenses detergent for washing a washing target,such as clothes or dishes (see Japanese Unexamined Patent ApplicationPublication Nos. 2002-224489, 2016-67810, 2002-153697, and 2010-136794).

Unlike traditional washing apparatuses into which a user dispensesdetergent in each washing cycle, the washing apparatuses disclosed inthese publications automatically dispense detergent, and thus arecapable of reducing a work burden on the user for dispensing detergent.That is, if the user stores the detergent in a detergent storing unitincluded in the washing apparatuses, the detergent is automaticallydispensed into a washing space in which the washing target is washed.Therefore, the user does not have to measure the amount of detergent anddispense the measured amount of detergent into the washing space in eachwashing cycle.

SUMMARY

The detergent stored in the detergent storing unit may be solidified orincreased in viscosity by lapse of time. The detergent solidified orincreased in viscosity may clog a passage leading to the washing space.That is, the detergent stored in the detergent storing unit for anextended period of time increases the risk of malfunction of the washingapparatus. The detergent storing unit is therefore desired to be washed.

It is preferable that the detergent storing unit be washed when empty(or determined to be empty). If there is detergent in the detergentstoring unit, the detergent therein would be discarded by washing thedetergent storing unit.

If the detergent in the detergent storing unit is reduced, the user maydispense more detergent, by which the time to wash the detergent storingunit would be missed.

The washing apparatuses disclosed in the foregoing publicationsdetermine an appropriate dispensing amount of the detergent by referringto the amount of the washing target or the remaining amount of thedetergent. The techniques disclosed in these publications, however, donot necessarily empty the detergent storing unit, and thus are unable toprompt washing of the detergent storing unit. If the detergent storingunit is not washed, the risk of solidification or increase in viscosityof the detergent in the detergent storing unit is increased. Thedetergent solidified or increased in viscosity increases the risk ofmalfunction of the washing apparatuses, as described above.

One non-limiting and exemplary embodiment provides a technique ofcreating an opportunity to wash the detergent storing unit, to therebyreduce the risk of malfunction of a washing apparatus.

In one general aspect, the techniques disclosed here feature aninformation processing method performed with a processor and including:acquiring, from a washing apparatus, remaining amount informationrepresenting a remaining amount of detergent in a detergent containerincluded in the washing apparatus to store the detergent; determiningwhether a second dispensing amount of the detergent falls below apredetermined threshold based on the remaining amount information and afirst dispensing amount, the first dispensing amount being set for onewashing event in which the washing apparatus washes a washing target,and the second dispensing amount being an amount of the detergentscheduled to be dispensed into the washing apparatus in a scheduledfirst washing event; changing a third dispensing amount to a fourthdispensing amount when the second dispensing amount is determined tofall below the predetermined threshold, the third dispensing amountbeing an amount of the detergent determined based on the firstdispensing amount and scheduled to be dispensed into the washingapparatus in at least one second washing event scheduled to precede thefirst washing event, and the fourth dispensing amount being equal to orgreater than the predetermined threshold; and outputting informationrepresenting the fourth dispensing amount to the washing apparatus todispense the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent into the washingapparatus in the at least one second washing event.

The general aspect may be implemented using a computer program, and anycombination of systems, methods, and computer programs.

The above-described technique is capable of creating an opportunity towash the detergent container, to thereby reduce the risk of malfunctionof the washing apparatus.

Additional benefits and advantages of the disclosed embodiments willbecome apparent from the specification and drawings. The benefits and/oradvantages may be individually obtained by the various embodiments andfeatures of the specification and drawings, which need not all beprovided in order to obtain one or more of such benefits and/oradvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary functionalconfiguration of a washing system of a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a sequence chart illustrating an overview of an exemplaryoperation of the washing system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of aremaining amount detecting unit of the washing system illustrated inFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of adetermining unit of the washing system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of a determination process of thedetermining unit;

FIG. 6 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation of adispensing control unit and a washing control unit of the washing systemillustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary process forsetting a first dispensing amount;

FIG. 8 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe determining unit;

FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of request information generated by theprocess of step S351 of the operation illustrated in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplaryfunctional configuration of a washing system of a second embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofa determining unit of the washing system illustrated in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a determination process of thedetermining unit in the washing system of the second embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a dispensing mechanism of thewashing system illustrated in FIG. 1 (a third embodiment);

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a determination process of thedetermining unit;

FIG. 15 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe dispensing control unit and the washing control unit; and

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplaryfunctional configuration of a washing apparatus of a fourth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION First Embodiment

When a user supplies detergent to a detergent storing unit of a washingapparatus, the detergent storing unit is filled with a large amount ofdetergent. If the washing apparatus is thereafter used repeatedly, thedetergent in the detergent storing unit gradually decreases. If thedetergent storing unit is eventually emptied and washed, solidificationor increase in viscosity of the detergent is unlikely to occur. That is,the risk of the detergent solidified or increased in viscosity causingclogging in the washing apparatus is reduced. If the user thereaftersupplies additional detergent to the detergent storing unit, the washingapparatus is able to operate reliably. If the detergent storing unit isemptied during the period from the supply of the detergent to thedetergent storing unit to the next supply of the detergent, there is apreferable time for washing the detergent storing unit with little wasteof the detergent. In a first embodiment, a description will be given ofan exemplary washing system that empties the detergent storing unit.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary functionalconfiguration of a washing system 100 of the first embodiment. Thewashing system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

The washing system 100 includes a washing apparatus 200 and aninformation processing apparatus 300. The washing apparatus 200 may be awashing machine that washes clothes placed therein as a washing target,or may be a dishwasher that washes dishes placed therein as a washingtarget. The principle of the present embodiment is not limited to aspecific function of the washing apparatus 200.

The washing apparatus 200 is formed to be communicable with theinformation processing apparatus 300. The principle of the presentembodiment is not limited to a specific format of communication betweenthe washing apparatus 200 and the information processing apparatus 300.For example, Wi-Fi communication may be used as the communicationbetween the washing apparatus 200 and the information processingapparatus 300.

The information processing apparatus 300 processes information relatingto the amount of detergent used to wash the washing target. Theinformation processing apparatus 300 may be a communication terminal,such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a mobile phone.Alternatively, the information processing apparatus 300 may be a cloudserver. The principle of the present embodiment is not limited to aspecific communication apparatus used as the information processingapparatus 300.

The washing apparatus 200 includes a main washing unit 210, a detergentstoring unit 220, a detergent dispensing unit 230, a remaining amountdetecting unit 240, a communicating unit 250, and a memory unit 260. Themain washing unit 210 is formed with a washing space 211 in which thewashing target such as clothes or dishes is placed. The washing targetis washed in the washing space 211.

The main washing unit 210 includes a target detecting unit 212, awashing control unit 213, and a washing mechanism 214. The targetdetecting unit 212 detects the weight of the washing target placed inthe washing space 211, and generates weight information representing thedetected weight. The weight information is output to the washing controlunit 213 and the detergent dispensing unit 230 from the target detectingunit 212. The washing control unit 213 refers to the weight information,and determines details of washing (the length of a washing period, forexample). The detergent dispensing unit 230 refers to the weightinformation, and determines the amount of detergent to be dispensed intothe washing space 211. Accordingly, the washing target is washed with anappropriate amount of detergent for the weight of the washing target inthe washing space 211.

The washing mechanism 214 washes the washing target in the washing space211 under the control of the washing control unit 213. A washingstructure employed in a known washing machine or dishwasher isapplicable to the washing mechanism 214. The washing mechanism 214 mayinclude valve elements for opening and closing a water supply passage tothe washing space 211 and a water drainage passage from the washingspace 211. If the washing apparatus 200 is a washing machine, thewashing mechanism 214 may include a motor that rotates a washing tubthat forms the washing space 211 in which the clothes are placed. If thewashing apparatus 200 is a dishwasher, the washing mechanism 214 mayinclude a motor that moves a nozzle for spraying water. The principle ofthe present embodiment is not limited to a specific structure of thewashing mechanism 214.

Control information necessary for controlling the washing mechanism 214(the amount of water to be supplied or the length of the washing periodcorresponding to the weight of the washing target detected by the targetdetecting unit 212, for example) is stored in the memory unit 260. Thewashing control unit 213 reads the control information from the memoryunit 260, and controls the washing mechanism 214 based on the weightinformation and the control information. Consequently, the washingmechanism 214 is capable of appropriately washing the washing target inthe washing space 211 under the control of the washing control unit 213.

The detergent is stored in the detergent storing unit 220. The detergentmay be liquid (a film-coated liquid block), solid such as powder, orgel. The principle of the present embodiment is not limited to aspecific type of detergent used to wash the washing target.

The detergent dispensing unit 230 includes an dispensing control unit231 and a dispensing mechanism 232. The aforementioned weightinformation is output to the dispensing control unit 231 from the targetdetecting unit 212. As well as the aforementioned control information,detergent amount information, which represents the relationship betweenthe weight of the washing target in the washing space 211 and thedispensing amount of the detergent to be dispensed into the washingspace 211, is also stored in the memory unit 260. Having received theweight information from the target detecting unit 212, the dispensingcontrol unit 231 reads the detergent amount information from the memoryunit 260, and finds a detergent dispensing amount corresponding to theweight of the washing target represented by the weight information. Thedispensing control unit 231 controls the dispensing mechanism 232 suchthat the dispensing mechanism 232 dispenses the detergent into thewashing space 211 from the detergent storing unit 220 by the founddetergent dispensing amount. Consequently, the dispensing mechanism 232is capable of dispensing the detergent into the washing space 211 fromthe detergent storing unit 220 by an appropriate amount for the weightof the washing target in the washing space 211 under the control of thedispensing control unit 231. The dispensing mechanism 232 may be a valveelement that opens or closes a passage for supplying liquid detergent.Alternatively, the dispensing mechanism 232 may be a combination of ascrew feeder that transports powdery detergent and a motor that drivesthe screw feeder. The principle of the present embodiment is not limitedto a specific structure of the dispensing mechanism 232.

The remaining amount detecting unit 240 detects the remaining amount ofthe detergent in the detergent storing unit 220. The remaining amountdetecting unit 240 generates remaining amount information representingthe detected remaining amount. The remaining amount information isoutput to the communicating unit 250 from the remaining amount detectingunit 240. The remaining amount detecting unit 240 may be a commonoptical sensor that optically detects the remaining amount of thedetergent in the detergent storing unit 220, or may be a common weightsensor that detects the weight of the detergent in the detergent storingunit 220. The principle of the present embodiment is not limited to aspecific sensor device employed as the remaining amount detecting unit240.

The communicating unit 250 includes a transmitting unit 251 and areceiving unit 252. The transmitting unit 251 receives theabove-described remaining amount information from the remaining amountdetecting unit 240. The transmitting unit 251 transmits the remainingamount information to the information processing apparatus 300. Theinformation processing apparatus 300 refers to the remaining amountinformation, and determines whether there will be shortage of thedetergent to be dispensed into the washing space 211 in a subsequentwashing event. The term “washing event” refers to the period from theplacement of the washing target into the washing space 211 by the userto the completion of washing of the washing target or an operation ofthe washing apparatus 200 and/or the information processing apparatus300 performed during this period.

Before or after a washing event in which the shortage of detergent isexpected, the information processing apparatus 300 generates requestinformation for requesting the washing apparatus 200 to perform anoperation of emptying the detergent storing unit 220. The receiving unit252 receives the request information from the information processingapparatus 300. Thereafter, the request information is output to thewashing control unit 213 and the dispensing control unit 231 from thereceiving unit 252. The dispensing control unit 231 adjusts the amountof detergent to be dispensed into the washing space 211 in accordancewith the request information. The washing control unit 213 controls thewashing operation of the washing mechanism 214 to suit the adjusteddetergent dispensing amount.

The information processing apparatus 300 includes an acquiring unit 310,a determining unit 320, an information generating unit 330, and aninformation outputting unit 340. The acquiring unit 310 receives theremaining amount information transmitted from the communicating unit250. The remaining amount information is thereafter output to thedetermining unit 320 from the acquiring unit 310. The determining unit320 refers to the remaining amount information, and determines whetherthere will be shortage of the detergent to be dispensed into the washingspace 211 in a subsequent washing event. If the determining unit 320determines that there will be shortage of the detergent dispensingamount, a determination result representing the shortage of thedetergent dispensing amount is output to the information generating unit330 from the determining unit 320. The information generating unit 330refers to the determination result, and generates the requestinformation for requesting the operation for emptying the detergentstoring unit 220. The request information is transmitted to theinformation outputting unit 340 from the information generating unit330. The information outputting unit 340 transmits the requestinformation to the communicating unit 250.

FIG. 2 is a sequence chart illustrating an overview of a process of thewashing system 100. The overview of the process of the washing system100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

(Step S110)

The washing apparatus 200 measures the remaining amount of thedetergent. Specifically, the remaining amount detecting unit 240 detectsthe amount of the detergent remaining in the detergent storing unit 220,and generates the remaining amount information. Thereafter, step S120 isexecuted.

(Step S120)

The washing apparatus 200 outputs the remaining amount information tothe information processing apparatus 300. Specifically, the remainingamount information is output to the transmitting unit 251 from theremaining amount detecting unit 240. The transmitting unit 251 generatesa radio signal representing the remaining amount information. The radiosignal is output to the acquiring unit 310 from the transmitting unit251. Thereafter, step S130 is executed.

(Step S130)

The information processing apparatus 300 determines a scheduleddispensing amount. Specifically, the acquiring unit 310 converts theradio signal into an electrical signal, and outputs the remaining amountinformation to the determining unit 320 as the electrical signal. Basedon the remaining amount information, the determining unit 320 determinesthe dispensing amount of the detergent to be dispensed in the nextwashing event (that is, the scheduled dispensing amount). Thereafter,step S140 is executed.

(Step S140)

The information processing apparatus 300 outputs a dispensing request tothe washing apparatus 200. Specifically, the determination resultrepresenting the determined scheduled dispensing amount is output to theinformation generating unit 330 from the determining unit 320. Theinformation generating unit 330 generates, as the request information,the dispensing request for requesting the determined scheduleddispensing amount of detergent to be dispensed in the next washingevent. The dispensing request is output to the information outputtingunit 340 from the information generating unit 330. The informationoutputting unit 340 transmits the dispensing request to the washingapparatus 200 as a radio signal. Thereafter, step S150 is executed.

(Step S150)

When the user places the washing target in the washing space 211, thewashing apparatus 200 measures the weight of the washing target.Specifically, the target detecting unit 212 measures the weight of thewashing target, and generates the weight information. The weightinformation is output to the dispensing control unit 231 from the targetdetecting unit 212. Thereafter, step S160 is executed.

(Step S160)

The washing apparatus 200 determines the dispensing amount of thedetergent. Specifically, the dispensing control unit 231 receives theweight information from the target detecting unit 212, and receives thedispensing request from the information outputting unit 340 via thereceiving unit 252. Based on the weight information and the dispensingrequest, the dispensing control unit 231 determines the dispensingamount of detergent to be actually supplied to the washing space 211.Thereafter, step S170 is executed.

(Step S170)

The washing apparatus 200 dispenses the determined dispensing amount ofdetergent into the washing space 211. Specifically, under the control ofthe dispensing control unit 231, the dispensing mechanism 232 dispensesthe determined dispensing amount of detergent into the washing space 211from the detergent storing unit 220. Under the control of the washingcontrol unit 213, the washing mechanism 214 washes the washing target inthe washing space 211. Thereafter, step S110 is executed again.

FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe remaining amount detecting unit 240. The operation of the remainingamount detecting unit 240 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1and 3.

(Step S210)

The remaining amount detecting unit 240 waits for the completion of thewashing event. The remaining amount detecting unit 240 may be notifiedby the washing control unit 213 of the completion of the washing event,or may detect the completion of the washing event from anothercondition. The principle of the present embodiment is not limited at allby how the remaining amount detecting unit 240 detects the completion ofthe washing event. After the completion of the washing event, step S220is executed.

(Step S220)

The remaining amount detecting unit 240 detects the amount of thedetergent remaining in the detergent storing unit 220. Thereafter, stepS230 is executed.

(Step S230)

The remaining amount detecting unit 240 generates the remaining amountinformation representing the detected remaining amount. The remainingamount information is thereafter transmitted to the determining unit 320via the transmitting unit 251 and the acquiring unit 310. After thegeneration of the remaining amount information, the process returns tostep S210.

FIG. 4 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe determining unit 320. The operation of the determining unit 320 willbe described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

(Step S310)

The determining unit 320 waits for the remaining amount information.After step S230 described with reference to FIG. 3 is executed, thedetermining unit 320 is able to acquire the remaining amount informationvia the transmitting unit 251 and the acquiring unit 310. After thedetermining unit 320 acquires the remaining amount information, stepS320 is executed.

(Step S320)

The determining unit 320 determines whether to change the dispensingamount based on the remaining amount information and a set dispensingamount, which is previously set (a set dispensing amount set for onewashing event, which will hereinafter be referred to as the firstdispensing amount). Specifically, the determining unit 320 calculates anumber N of washing events executable with the set dispensing amount anda residual value a of the detergent in the (N+1)-th washing event fromthe remaining amount represented by the remaining amount information andthe set dispensing amount, and determines whether the value resultingfrom the calculation falls below a threshold. In other words, theremaining amount represented by the remaining amount information isexpressible by a formula described in the block of step S320. The firstdispensing amount may have a value suitable for washing an averageweight of washing target placed in the washing space 211. Alternatively,the first dispensing amount may be determined based on detergent usagehistory information. The principle of the present embodiment is notlimited at all by how the first dispensing amount is set.

The determining unit 320 calculates the natural number “N” and theresidual value “α” from the remaining amount represented by theremaining amount information and the first dispensing amount. Thenatural number “N” is used as an indicator of how many washing eventsare executable with the current remaining amount. The residual value “α”is equal to or greater than “0,” and is less than the first dispensingamount. The residual value “α” represents a second dispensing amount ofdetergent scheduled to be dispensed in the last washing event to beexecuted with the current remaining amount. After the determining unit320 calculates the natural number “N” and the residual value “α,” stepS330 is executed. As for the present embodiment, the first dispensingamount is illustrative of the predetermined threshold. However, thepredetermined threshold may be a value less than the first dispensingamount. In the present embodiment, the dispensing amount of detergentscheduled to be dispensed in each of washing events up to the N-thwashing event (a third dispensing amount) corresponds to the firstdispensing amount. However, the dispensing amount in each of the washingevents up to the N-th washing event may be increased or reduced if theincrease or reduction in the dispensing amount does not change the totaldispensing amount for the washing events up to the N-th washing event.

(Step S330)

If the natural number “N” is “1,” step S340 is executed. Otherwise, stepS310 is executed.

(Step S340)

The determining unit 320 determines whether the residual value “α”equals “0.” If the residual value “α” equals “0,” the process iscompleted. Otherwise, step S350 is executed.

(Step S350)

The determining unit 320 generates a determination result representingthe scheduled dispensing amount of detergent to be dispensed in the nextwashing event (hereinafter referred to as the “fourth dispensingamount”). The determination result may include information indicatingthat the fourth dispensing amount is the sum of the third dispensingamount and the residual value “α.” The determination result is output tothe information generating unit 330 from the determining unit 320. Theinformation generating unit 330 generates, as the request information, adispensing request for requesting an amount of detergent correspondingto the sum of the third dispensing amount and the residual value “α” tobe dispensed. The request information is transmitted to the informationoutputting unit 340. Thereafter, the request information is transmittedto the receiving unit 252 from the information outputting unit 340. Thedispensing control unit 231 is capable of receiving the requestinformation via the receiving unit 252. When the dispensing control unit231 receives the request information, the amount of the detergentremaining in the detergent storing unit 220 is substantially equal tothe sum of the third dispensing amount and the residual value “α.”Therefore, when the dispensing control unit 231 instructs the dispensingmechanism 232 to dispense the amount of detergent corresponding to thesum of the third dispensing amount and the residual value “α” inaccordance with the request information and the dispensing mechanism 232dispenses the detergent into the washing space 211 from the detergentstoring unit 220 under the control of the dispensing control unit 231,the detergent storing unit 220 is substantially emptied. After thedetermining unit 320 generates the determination result, the determiningunit 320 completes the determination process.

FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of the determination process of thedetermining unit 320. The determination process will be furtherdescribed with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

DETERMINATION PROCESS (1) in FIG. 5 represents the process of thedetermining unit 320 having acquired first remaining amount information(that is, the remaining amount information generated at step S230 inFIG. 3). The determining unit 320 has determined that an amount ofdetergent enabling up to M (wherein M>1) washing events to be executedwith the third dispensing amount, that is, the first dispensing amount“DDA,” remains in the detergent storing unit 220. Since “N=M (whereinM>1)” holds (NO at step S330), the determining unit 320 does notgenerate the determination result that changes the scheduled dispensingamount. That is, the scheduled dispensing amount for the first washingevent (the second dispensing amount) remains to be the first dispensingamount “DDA.”

DETERMINATION PROCESS (M) in FIG. 5 represents the process of thedetermining unit 320 performed when the natural number “N” equals “1”after a process loop of steps S310 to S330 in FIG. 4 is repeated (thatis, when the M-th washing event arises). The determining unit 320determines that an amount of detergent enabling up to one washing eventto be executed with the third dispensing amount, that is, the firstdispensing amount “DDA,” remains in the detergent storing unit 220.Since “N=(M−(M−1))=1” holds here (YES at step S330), the determiningunit 320 compares the residual value “α” with a threshold “RTH.”

A step S340, the determining unit 320 checks whether the residual value“α” equals “0.” If the residual value “α” equals “0,” the detergentstoring unit 220 will be substantially emptied even without the processat step S350 of adjusting the dispensing amount. If the residual value“α” does not equal “0,” there arises a second washing event (firstwashing event) which involves shortage of the scheduled dispensingamount of detergent. In this case, the determining unit 320 determinesthe amount corresponding to the sum of the third dispensing amount, thatis, the first dispensing amount “DDA,” and the residual value “α” as thefourth dispensing amount in a first washing event (second washing event)preceding the second washing event being the first washing event, asillustrated in DETERMINATION PROCESS (M) in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213. Theoperation of the dispensing control unit 231 and the washing controlunit 213 will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIGS. 4 to 6.

(Step S405)

The dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 waitfor the weight information. After the dispensing control unit 231receives the weight information from the target detecting unit 212, stepS410 is executed.

(Step S410)

The washing control unit 213 reads the detergent amount information (see“TABLE 1” given below) from the memory unit 260. Thereafter, step S415is executed.

TABLE 1 Detergent amount information Recommended dispensing amountWeight of washing target of detergent Less than TW₀ DD₀ Equal to orgreater than TW₀ and less than TW₁ DD₁ Equal to or greater than TW₁ andless than TW₂ DD₂ . . . . . . Equal to or greater than TW_(n−1) andequal to or DD_(n) less than TW_(n)

(Step S415)

The dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 checkwhether the request information has been received. If the dispensingcontrol unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 have received therequest information via the receiving unit 252 (that is, if step S350 inFIG. 4 has been executed), step S420 is executed. Otherwise, step S435is executed.

(Step S420)

The dispensing control unit 231 determines the amount of all detergentremaining in the detergent storing unit 220 as a dispensing amount“RQD.” Thereafter, step S425 is executed.

(Step S425)

The dispensing control unit 231 subtracts a recommended dispensingamount “RMD” determined at step S410 from the dispensing amount “RQD”determined at step S420, to thereby calculate a difference value “ΔDD.”The dispensing control unit 231 compares the absolute value of thedifference value “ΔDD” with a predetermined threshold “DTH.” If theabsolute value of the difference value “ΔDD” is greater than thethreshold “DTH,” step S430 is executed. Otherwise, step S440 isexecuted.

(Step S430)

The washing control unit 213 refers to a program list stored in thememory unit 260, and finds a washing program corresponding to the weightrepresented by the weight information. A table given below conceptuallyrepresents the program list. If the weight represented by the weightinformation is in the range of “equal to or greater than TW₁ and lessthan TW₂,” the washing control unit 213 selects “Program 2” as thewashing program to be adjusted.

TABLE 2 Program list Weight of washing target Washing program Less thanTW₀ Program 0 Equal to or greater than TW₀ and less than TW₁ Program 1Equal to or greater than TW₁ and less than TW₂ Program 2 . . . . . .Equal to or greater than TW_(n−1) and equal to or Program n less thanTW_(n)

The washing control unit 213 changes the selected washing program inaccordance with the difference value “ΔDD.” A positive difference value“ΔDD” indicates that the detergent dispensing amount is greater than therecommended dispensing amount “RMD.” Therefore, the washing control unit213 may change a set value of the selected washing program to extend arinsing time. A negative difference value “ΔDD” indicates that thedetergent dispensing amount is less than the recommended dispensingamount “RMD.” Therefore, the washing control unit 213 may change a setvalue of the selected washing program to shorten the rinsing time. Inaddition to or in place of the adjustment of the rinsing time, thewashing control unit 213 may change a set value of the selected washingprogram to adjust the amount of water to be supplied to the washingspace 211, a washing time, or the number of rinsing cycles in accordancewith the difference value “ΔDD.” The principle of the present embodimentis not limited to a specific control parameter adjusted by the washingcontrol unit 213. After the selected washing program is adjusted, stepS445 is executed.

(Step S435)

The washing control unit 213 refers to the detergent amount information,and determines the recommended dispensing amount “RMD” corresponding tothe weight represented by the weight information. If the weightrepresented by the weight information is in the range of “equal to orgreater than TW₁ and less than TW₂,” the washing control unit 213recognizes a value “DD₂” as the recommended dispensing amount “RMD.”After the washing control unit 213 determines the recommended dispensingamount “RMD,” step S440 is executed.

(Step S440)

The washing control unit 213 refers to the program list stored in thememory unit 260, and finds a washing program corresponding to the weightrepresented by the weight information. If the weight represented by theweight information is in the range of “equal to or greater than TW₁ andless than TW₂,” the washing control unit 213 selects “Program 2” as thewashing program to be adjusted. After the selection of the washingprogram, step S445 is executed.

(Step S445)

The dispensing control unit 231 generates a dispensing control signalfor instructing to dispense the detergent by the dispensing amount “RQD”determined at step S420 or S435. The dispensing control signal is outputto the dispensing mechanism 232 from the dispensing control unit 231.The dispensing mechanism 232 dispenses the detergent into the washingspace 211 by the dispensing amount “RQD” determined at step S420 orS435. The dispensing mechanism 232 may know the dispensing amount “RQD”of the detergent dispensed into the washing space 211 through feedbackcontrol with the remaining amount detecting unit 240 or by reference toa sensor device (not illustrated) included in the dispensing mechanism232.

(Step S450)

The washing control unit 213 executes the washing program, and controlsthe washing mechanism 214. Accordingly, the washing target in thewashing space 211 is appropriately washed.

(Other Features)

The above-described control technique may be provided with variousfeatures by a designer. Features described below do not limit theabove-described control principle at all.

(Method of Determining First Dispensing Amount Based on User UsageHistory)

The first dispensing amount “DDA” described with reference to FIG. 4 maybe determined based on user usage history. A method of determining thefirst dispensing amount “DDA” based on the user usage history will bedescribed below. The third dispensing amount may be determined based onthe previously set first dispensing amount and the user usage history.

Step S320 described with reference to FIG. 4 is repeated until thenatural number “N” equals “1.” The first dispensing amount “DDA” may beset during this repeating process.

FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary process forsetting the first dispensing amount “DDA.” The process for setting thefirst dispensing amount “DDA” will be described with reference to FIGS.1, 4, and 7.

(Step S321)

The determining unit 320 determines whether the remaining amountinformation received from the acquiring unit 310 is the first remainingamount information. The determining unit 320 may refer to a process flagfor this determination. When the washing system 100 is first used, orwhen step S350 in FIG. 4 is executed, the process flag may be turned on.If the process flag is on, the determining unit 320 is capable ofdetermining that the remaining amount information received from theacquiring unit 310 is the first remaining amount information. If havingdetermined that the remaining amount information received from theacquiring unit 310 is the first remaining amount information, thedetermining unit 320 turns off the process flag. Thereafter, step S322is executed. If the process flag is not on when step S321 starts, stepS323 is executed.

(Step S322)

The determining unit 320 stores the remaining amount represented by thefirst remaining amount information. Thereafter, the process iscompleted.

(Step S323)

The determining unit 320 stores the remaining amount represented by theremaining amount information received from the acquiring unit 310.Thereafter, step S324 is executed.

(Step S324)

The determining unit 320 subtracts the present remaining amount from theprevious remaining amount to calculate the detergent dispensing amountfor the present washing event, and stores the calculated detergentdispensing amount. Thereafter, step S325 is executed.

(Step S325)

The determining unit 320 averages the detergent dispensing amountsstored thus far, and updates the first dispensing amount “DDA.”Thereafter, step S326 is executed.

(Step S326)

The determining unit 320 determines the natural number “N” and theresidual value “α” with the updated first dispensing amount “DDA.”Thereafter, step S330 is executed.

(Another Method for Determining Fourth Dispensing Amount)

According to the method described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, thethird dispensing amount in the second washing event is adjusted, and thedetergent storing unit 220 is emptied after the completion of the secondwashing event. However, the second dispensing amount in the firstwashing event and the third dispensing amount in the second washingevent may be adjusted such that the detergent storing unit 220 isemptied after the completion of the first washing event. A descriptionwill be given bellow of another method for determining the adjustedsecond dispensing amount (hereinafter also referred to as the fifthdispensing amount) and the adjusted third dispensing amount, that is,the fourth dispensing amount.

FIG. 8 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe determining unit 320. The operation of the determining unit 320 willbe described with reference to FIGS. 1, 4, 7, and 8.

Steps S310 to S330 described with reference to FIG. 4 are repeated untilthe natural number “N” equals “1.” The description given with FIG. 4will be incorporated in the description of steps S310 to S330. Theprocess described with reference to FIG. 7 may be executed at step S320.

When the natural number “N” equals “1” at step S330, step S340 describedwith reference to FIG. 4 is executed. The description given with FIG. 4will be incorporated in the description of step S340. If the residualvalue “α” is not “0” at step S340, step S351 is executed. Otherwise, theprocess is completed. Step S351 is a process replacing step S350described with reference to FIG. 4.

FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of request information generated by theprocess of step S351. The determining unit 320 and the informationgenerating unit 330 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

When the natural number “N” equals “1” at step S330, the determiningunit 320 determines the second washing event from the time of receipt ofthe immediately preceding remaining amount information as the firstwashing event. The determining unit 320 further determines the firstwashing event from the time of receipt of the immediately precedingremaining amount information as the second washing event. Thedetermining unit 320 determines the scheduled dispensing amounts of thedetergent for these washing events.

When step S351 is executed, the determining unit 320 equally divides theremaining amount represented by the remaining amount information for thefirst washing event and the second washing event. The determining unit320 transmits to the information generating unit 330 an instruction togenerate a dispensing request for requesting the equally divideddispensing amounts of detergent to be dispensed in the first washingevent and the second washing event, respectively. The informationgenerating unit 330 generates the dispensing request as the requestinformation. The request information is transmitted to the dispensingcontrol unit 231 via the information outputting unit 340 and thereceiving unit 252. In accordance with the request information, thedispensing control unit 231 causes the dispensing mechanism 232 todispense the equally divided dispensing amounts of detergent in thefirst washing event and the second washing event, respectively.Consequently, the detergent storing unit 220 is emptied after the firstwashing event. The remaining amount of the detergent is not necessarilydivided equally.

In the determination process described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9,one washing event immediately preceding the first washing event isprocessed as the second washing event. However, each of a plurality ofwashing events immediately preceding the first washing event is alsoprocessed as the second washing event. In the determination processdescribed with reference to FIG. 8, if step S340 is executed when thenatural number “N” equals “2,” two washing events immediately precedingthe first washing event are each processed as the second washing event.In this case, the remaining amount represented by the remaining amountinformation is equally divided into three amounts. The values of thethree equally divided amounts are set as the fourth dispensing amountsfor the two second washing events and the fifth dispensing amount forthe first washing event, respectively.

Second Embodiment

As for the foregoing embodiment, for how many washing events thedetergent dispensing amount is to be adjusted, that is, the number ofwashing events to be executed until the detergent is used up, entirelydepends on the information processing apparatus 300. The number ofwashing events to be executed until the detergent is used up, however,may be set by the user. A washing system according to a secondembodiment, therefore, allows the user to set the number of washingevents to be executed until the detergent is used up. An exemplarywashing system of the second embodiment will be described below.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplaryfunctional configuration of a washing system 100A of the secondembodiment. The washing system 100A will be described with reference toFIG. 10.

The washing system 100A includes the washing apparatus 200 similarly asin the first embodiment. The description of the first embodiment will beincorporated in the description of the washing apparatus 200.

The washing system 100A further includes an information processingapparatus 300A. The information processing apparatus 300A includes theacquiring unit 310, the information generating unit 330, and theinformation outputting unit 340 similarly as in the first embodiment.The description of the first embodiment will be incorporated in thedescription of these elements.

The washing system 100A includes a determining unit 320A and a userinterface 350. The determining unit 320A finds a first washing event inwhich shortage of the detergent dispensing amount is expected, anddetermines the detergent dispensing amount for each washing event forwhich the detergent dispensing amount is to be adjusted. The userinterface 350 is used by the user to set the number of washing events tobe executed until the detergent is used up. As for the presentembodiment, the user interface 350 is a common touch panel, but may beanother device capable of providing information to the user andreceiving input from the user. The principle of the present embodimentis not limited to a specific device used as the user interface 350.

FIG. 11 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe determining unit 320A. The operation of the determining unit 320Awill be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 7, 8, 10, and 11. Detaileddescription of the already described processes will be omitted.

(Step S310)

The determining unit 320A waits for the remaining amount information.

(Step S320)

The determining unit 320A calculates the natural number “N” and theresidual value “α” from the remaining amount represented by theremaining amount information and the first dispensing amount.

(Step S360)

If the natural number “N” is a threshold “X,” step S365 is executed.Otherwise, the process returns to step S310. The threshold “X” ispreviously set.

(Step S365)

The determining unit 320A requests the user interface 350 to display aninput image. The input image includes an input window for requesting theuser to input the number of washing events to be executed until thedetergent is used up and for allowing the user to input the number ofwashing events. The input image further includes an input window for theuser to allow the information processing apparatus 300A to automaticallydetermine the number of washing events to be executed until thedetergent is used up.

(Step S370)

The determining unit 320A checks whether there is input from the user.If the user operates the user interface 350 in accordance with therequest displayed on the input image, the input from the user istransmitted to the determining unit 320A from the user interface 350. Ifthe determining unit 320A receives the input from the user, step S375 isexecuted. Otherwise, step S380 is executed.

(Step S375)

The determining unit 320A sets the number ‘Y’ of washing events to beexecuted until the detergent is used up (hereinafter referred to as the“set event number”) to the value input by the user.

(Step S380)

The determining unit 320A sets the set event number ‘Y’ to apredetermined default value.

(Step S385)

The determining unit 320A generates a determination result representingthe scheduled dispensing amount of detergent to be dispensed in each ofthe remaining washing events, that is, the “fourth dispensing amount.”Specifically, the determining unit 320A generates a determination resultincluding the value obtained by dividing the remaining amount of thedetergent by the set event number “Y.” Then, the information generatingunit 330 generates, as the request information, a dispensing request forrequesting the detergent to be dispensed by the amount corresponding tothe value included in the determination result.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a determination process of thedetermining unit 320A. The determination process of the determining unit320A will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 12.

DETERMINATION PROCESS (M) in FIG. 12 represents the process of thedetermining unit 320A performed when the M-th washing event arises. Thedetermining unit 320A has determined that an amount of detergentenabling up to “X” washing events, wherein “X” represents the threshold,to be executed with the third dispensing amount, that is, the firstdispensing amount “DDA,” remains in the detergent storing unit 220.Since “N=X” holds (YES at step S360), the determining unit 320A requeststhe user to input the set event number “Y.” If there is input from theuser, the determining unit 320A sets the input value as the set eventnumber “Y.” The determining unit 320A then sets the amount obtained bydividing the remaining amount of the detergent by the set event number“Y” (in other words, the amount obtained by equally dividing theremaining amount by the set event number “Y”) as the fourth dispensingamount. It is thereby possible to use up the detergent with “Y” washingevents requested by the user.

In place of the set event number “Y,” the user may input the detergentdispensing amount per washing event, and the set event number “Y” may bedetermined based on this dispensing amount.

Third Embodiment

According to the control principle described in relation to theforegoing embodiments, the dispensing amounts of detergent to bedispensed in a first washing event in which shortage of detergent isexpected and at least one second washing event set to immediatelyprecede the first washing event are adjusted, to thereby empty thedetergent storing unit 220. Meanwhile, if a small amount of detergentremaining in the detergent storing unit 220 is alternatively evacuatedinto a predetermined spare storing space, the detergent storing unit 220is similarly emptied. Therefore, a washing system according to a thirdembodiment empties the detergent storing unit 220 by evacuating thesmall amount of detergent remaining in the detergent storing unit 220into the predetermined spare storing space. An exemplary controltechnique of the third embodiment will be described below.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of the dispensing mechanism 232 andcomponents relating to the dispensing mechanism 232. The dispensingmechanism 232 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 13.

The dispensing mechanism 232 includes a first dispensing unit 233, asecond dispensing unit 234, a spare storing unit 235, and a returningunit 236. If a sufficient amount of detergent remains in the detergentstoring unit 220, the first dispensing unit 233 dispenses the detergentinto the washing space 211 from the detergent storing unit 220 under thecontrol of the dispensing control unit 231. Meanwhile, if aninsufficient amount of detergent remains in the detergent storing unit220, a detergent supply passage communicating with the first dispensingunit 233 is closed. Instead of the first dispensing unit 233, the seconddispensing unit 234 operates under the control of the dispensing controlunit 231 to dispense all detergent remaining in the detergent storingunit 220 into the spare storing unit 235. If the detergent is liquid orgel, the first dispensing unit 233 and the second dispensing unit 234may be valves that operate under the control of the dispensing controlunit 231. If the detergent is solid (powder), the first dispensing unit233 and the second dispensing unit 234 may be screw feeders that operateunder the control of the dispensing control unit 231. The principle ofthe present embodiment is not limited to a specific structure of thefirst dispensing unit 233 and the second dispensing unit 234.

The spare storing unit 235 is a container forming a spare storing space237 in which the detergent is temporarily stored. The second dispensingunit 234 dispenses the detergent into the spare storing space 237 fromthe detergent storing unit 220. The returning unit 236 returns thedetergent into the detergent storing unit 220 from the spare storingspace 237. If the detergent is liquid or gel, the returning unit 236 maybe a pump. If the detergent is solid (powder), the returning unit 236may be a screw feeder. The principle of the present embodiment is notlimited to a specific structure of the returning unit 236.

The washing apparatus 200 further includes a sub-washing unit 270 thatwashes the detergent storing unit 220. The washing control unit 213controls the returning unit 236 and the sub-washing unit 270 as well asthe washing mechanism 214. In addition, the washing control unit 213notifies the dispensing control unit 231 of the time to dispense thedetergent or the completion of the washing event.

The determining unit 320 (see FIG. 1) executes the process describedwith reference to FIG. 4. At step S350, however, the determining unit320 generates a determination result, the contents of which aredifferent from those of the first embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a determination process of thedetermining unit 320. The determining unit 320 will be described withreference to FIGS. 1, 4, and 14.

FIG. 14 indicates that the natural number “N” equals “1” as a result ofexecution of M washing events. When the natural number “N” equals “1,”the second washing event from the time of receipt of the immediatelypreceding remaining amount information is the first washing event. Thefirst washing event from the time of receipt of the immediatelypreceding remaining amount information is the second washing event. FIG.14 indicates that it is possible to dispense the third dispensing amountof detergent in the second washing event, and that only an amount ofdetergent corresponding to the residual value “α” remains in thedetergent storing unit 220 after the second washing event. At step S340described with reference to FIG. 4, the determining unit 320 checkswhether the residual value “α” equals “0.” The result of determinationof whether the residual value “α” equals “0” is transmitted to theinformation generating unit 330 from the determining unit 320. If thedetermination result indicates that the residual value “α” is not “0,”the information generating unit 330 generates, as the requestinformation, an evacuation request for requesting the detergent in thedetergent storing unit 220 (that is, the amount of detergentcorresponding to the residual value “α”) to be temporarily evacuatedinto the spare storing space 237 after the completion of the secondwashing event. The request information is output to the dispensingcontrol unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 via the informationoutputting unit 340 and the receiving unit 252.

FIG. 15 is a schematic flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation ofthe dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213. Theoperation of the dispensing control unit 231 and the washing controlunit 213 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 13, and 15.

(Step S505)

The dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 waitfor the weight information. After the dispensing control unit 231 andthe washing control unit 213 receive the weight information from thetarget detecting unit 212 (see FIG. 1), step S510 is executed.

(Step S510)

The dispensing control unit 231 determines the recommended dispensingamount “RMD” corresponding to the weight represented by the weightinformation acquired at step S505. Thereafter, step S515 is executed.

(Step S515)

The dispensing control unit 231 determines the recommended dispensingamount “RMD” determined at step S510 as the dispensing amount “RQD.”Thereafter, step S520 is executed.

(Step S520)

The washing control unit 213 refers to the program list (TABLE 2) storedin the memory unit 260, and determines a washing program correspondingto the weight represented by the weight information acquired at stepS505. If the weight represented by the weight information is in therange of “equal to or greater than TW₁ and less than TW₂,” the washingcontrol unit 213 determines “Program 2” as the washing program to beadjusted. After the washing program is determined, step S525 isexecuted.

(Step S525)

The dispensing control unit 231 generates a dispensing control signalsuch that the detergent is dispensed into the washing space 211 by thedispensing amount “RQD” determined at step S515. The dispensing controlsignal is output to the first dispensing unit 233 from the dispensingcontrol unit 231. In accordance with the dispensing control signal, thefirst dispensing unit 233 dispenses the dispensing amount “RQD” ofdetergent into the washing space 211 from the detergent storing unit220. After the detergent is dispensed into the washing space 211 fromthe detergent storing unit 220, step S530 is executed.

(Step S530)

The washing control unit 213 executes the washing program determined atstep S520. Thereafter, step S535 is executed.

(Step S535)

The dispensing control unit 231 and the washing control unit 213 checkwhether the evacuation request has been received as the requestinformation. If the evacuation request has been output to these units,step S540 is executed. Otherwise, the process is completed, and the nextwashing event is waited for.

(Step S540)

The dispensing control unit 231 generates a dispensing control signalfor operating the second dispensing unit 234. The dispensing controlsignal is output to the second dispensing unit 234 from the dispensingcontrol unit 231. In accordance with the dispensing control signal, thesecond dispensing unit 234 dispenses the detergent into the sparestoring space 237 from the detergent storing unit 220. Consequently, thedetergent storing unit 220 is emptied. After the generation of thedispensing control signal, step S545 is executed.

(Step S545)

The washing control unit 213 controls the sub-washing unit 270 to washthe detergent storing unit 220. Consequently, the risk of malfunction ofthe washing apparatus 200 attributed to solidification or increase inviscosity of the detergent in the detergent storing unit 220 is reduced.After the washing of the detergent storing unit 220 is completed, stepS550 is executed.

(Step S550)

The washing control unit 213 controls the returning unit 236 to returnthe detergent in the spare storing space 237 into the detergent storingunit 220.

In the present embodiment, the detergent temporarily evacuated in thespare storing space 237 is returned into the detergent storing unit 220(step S550), and thus is reusable in a subsequent washing event. It ispreferable that the detergent newly dispensed into the washed detergentstoring unit 220 by the user be of the same type as the type ofdetergent returned to the detergent storing unit 220. Therefore,information representing the type of detergent being used may benotified to the user via the washing apparatus 200 and/or theinformation processing apparatus 300. In this case, a managementtechnique for managing the type of detergent being used or anotification technique for notifying the user of the type of detergentbeing used is incorporated in the washing apparatus 200 and/or theinformation processing apparatus 300.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, when the request information is output fromthe information processing apparatus 300 (see FIG. 1), the washing ofthe detergent storing unit 220 is executed. Therefore, outputting therequest information to the washing control unit 213 means requesting thedetergent storing unit 220 to be washed.

As for the present embodiment, the detergent storing unit 220 isautomatically washed by the sub-washing unit 270. The washing system100, however, may include a notifying device that notifies the user thatthe time has come to wash the detergent storing unit 220 (an imagedisplay device capable of displaying text information and/or imageinformation (a touch panel, for example) or an audio device that outputsbeep sound or audio guidance). When the detergent storing unit 220 isemptied, the notifying device may notify the user that the time has cometo wash the detergent storing unit 220 under the control of the washingcontrol unit 213.

Fourth Embodiment

As for the foregoing embodiments, the information processing apparatus300 or 300A is disposed at a position away from the washing apparatus200, and communicates with the washing apparatus 200. However, theinformation processing apparatus 300 or 300A may be incorporated in thewashing apparatus 200 to function as a part of the washing apparatus200. In a fourth embodiment, an exemplary washing apparatus having aninformation processing apparatus incorporated therein will be described.

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplaryfunctional configuration of a washing apparatus 200B of the fourthembodiment. The washing apparatus 200B will be described with referenceto FIG. 16.

The washing apparatus 200B includes the main washing unit 210, thedetergent storing unit 220, the detergent dispensing unit 230, theremaining amount detecting unit 240, and the memory unit 260 similarlyas in the first embodiment. The description of the first embodiment willbe incorporated in the description of these elements.

The information processing apparatus 300 described in relation to thefirst embodiment is incorporated in the washing apparatus 200B. Thedescription of the first embodiment will be incorporated in thedescription of the information processing apparatus 300.

The information processing apparatus 300 may be designed as a controlcircuit that controls the washing apparatus 200B. In this case, thecontrol circuit may have the functions of the information processingapparatus 300, the washing control unit 213, and the dispensing controlunit 231.

The acquiring unit 310 directly receives the remaining amountinformation from the remaining amount detecting unit 240. Thedetermining unit 320 and the information generating unit 330 execute theinformation processing described in relation to the first embodiment togenerate the request information. The request information is transmittedto the information outputting unit 340 from the information generatingunit 330. The information outputting unit 340 directly transmits therequest information to the dispensing control unit 231 and the washingcontrol unit 213.

As for the foregoing embodiments, the detergent dispensing amount isdetermined, before the generation of the request information, based onthe weight of the washing target placed in the washing space 211 (see“TABLE 1”). The detergent dispensing amount, however, may be determinedbased on the water supply amount determined in accordance with theweight of the washing target. In this case, the detergent dispensingamount is associated with the weight of the washing target via the watersupply amount.

As described above, according to the embodiments of the presentdisclosure, an information processing method is provided which isperformed with a processor and includes: acquiring, from a washingapparatus, remaining amount information representing a remaining amountof detergent in a detergent container included in the washing apparatusto store the detergent; determining whether a second dispensing amountof the detergent falls below a predetermined threshold based on theremaining amount information and a first dispensing amount, the firstdispensing amount being set for one washing event in which the washingapparatus washes a washing target, and the second dispensing amountbeing an amount of the detergent scheduled to be dispensed into thewashing apparatus in a scheduled first washing event; changing a thirddispensing amount to a fourth dispensing amount when the seconddispensing amount is determined to fall below the predeterminedthreshold, the third dispensing amount being an amount of the detergentdetermined based on the first dispensing amount and scheduled to bedispensed into the washing apparatus in at least one second washingevent scheduled to precede the first washing event, and the fourthdispensing amount being equal to or greater than the predeterminedthreshold; and outputting information representing the fourth dispensingamount to the washing apparatus to dispense the fourth dispensing amountof the detergent into the washing apparatus in the at least one secondwashing event.

According to existing techniques, the remaining amount of the detergentfalls below the predetermined threshold in some washing events.According to the above-described configuration, the dispensing amount ofthe detergent in the at least one second washing event executed beforethe first washing event is changed. Therefore, the detergent is used upbefore the first washing event, or the amount of the detergent to bedispensed in the first washing event exceeds the predeterminedthreshold. Accordingly, it is possible to empty the detergent containerwhile dispensing the detergent by an amount desirable for washing. Thatis, the above-described configuration is capable of finding a timesuitable for washing the detergent container. Consequently, the washingof the detergent container is prompted, thereby reducing the risk ofmalfunction of the washing apparatus.

Further, the changing the third dispensing amount may includedetermining the fourth dispensing amount to empty the detergentcontainer after completion of the at least one second washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, the detergent containeris emptied with the detergent therein used up after the completion ofthe second washing event, that is, before the scheduled first washingevent. It is therefore possible to advance the time for washing thedetergent container, and thus to further reduce the risk of malfunctionof the washing apparatus.

Further, the fourth dispensing amount may be greater than the firstdispensing amount.

According to the above-described configuration, it is possible todispense, in the second washing event preceding the first washing event,the detergent supposed to have been dispensed in the scheduled firstwashing event.

Further, the changing the third dispensing amount may includedetermining the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent scheduled tobe dispensed in the at least one second washing event to make adispensing amount of the detergent in the first washing event equal toor greater than the predetermined threshold and empty the detergentcontainer after completion of the first washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, the detergent containeris emptied with the detergent therein used up after the completion ofthe scheduled first washing event. It is possible to execute thescheduled number of washing events while creating an opportunity to washthe detergent container.

Further, the changing the third dispensing amount may include dividingthe remaining amount of the detergent represented by the remainingamount information into predetermined amounts for the first washingevent and the at least one second washing event, wherein each of thepredetermined amounts is equal to or greater than the predeterminedthreshold.

According to the above-described configuration, the dispensing amount ofthe detergent to be dispensed in the first washing event and the atleast one second washing event is divided into the predetermined amountseach equal to or greater than the threshold. It is therefore possible tosuppress excess or deficiency of the amount of the detergent to bedispensed. Accordingly, it is possible to appropriately wash the washingtarget while changing the dispensing amount of the detergent. The thirddispensing amount may be equally divided for the respective events.

Further, the changing the third dispensing amount may include (i)inquiring of a user a number of at least one washing event set as the atleast one second washing event, (ii) receiving the number of the atleast one washing event from the user, and (iii) calculating the fourthdispensing amount of the detergent to be dispensed in the at least onesecond washing event based on the remaining amount information beforestart of the at least one second washing event and the number receivedfrom the user.

According to the above-described configuration, the number of the atleast one washing event set as the at least one second washing event isinquired of the user. It is therefore possible to determine an amountsuiting the request or habit of the user as the third dispensing amount.

Further, the fourth dispensing amount may be less than the firstdispensing amount.

According to the above-described configuration, it is possible tocompensate for the shortage in the amount of detergent in the firstwashing event with the detergent scheduled to have been dispensed in thesecond washing event.

Further, the information processing method may further includedetermining to cause the washing apparatus to execute an evacuationoperation of evacuating the detergent remaining in the detergentcontainer into a predetermined spare storing space after completion ofthe at least one second washing event, and requesting the washingapparatus to execute the evacuation operation after the completion ofthe at least one second washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, with an amount of thedetergent less than the predetermined threshold being evacuated, it ispossible to create an opportunity to wash the detergent containerwithout changing the amount of the detergent to be dispensed in thesecond washing event.

Further, the information processing method may further includedetermining to cause the washing apparatus to execute a tertiary washingevent without the washing target and with the detergent remaining in thedetergent container after completion of the at least one second washingevent, and causing the washing apparatus to execute the tertiary washingevent after the completion of the at least one second washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, the amount of detergentless than the predetermined threshold is consumed independently of thewashing events. It is thereby possible to create an opportunity to washthe detergent container without changing the amount of the detergent tobe dispensed in the second washing event.

Further, the information processing method may further includeoutputting a washing request for requesting the detergent container tobe washed after completion of the first washing event or the at leastone second washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, the washing request forrequesting the detergent container to be washed is output to the washingapparatus, thereby making it possible to wash the detergent containermore reliably. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the risk ofsolidification or excessive increase in viscosity of the detergent.Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the risk of a failure in which thedetergent solidified or increased in viscosity clogs a passage in thewashing apparatus.

Further, an information processing apparatus according to another aspectof the present disclosure includes an acquirer, a determiner, aninformation generator, and an information outputter. The acquireracquires, from a washing apparatus, remaining amount informationrepresenting a remaining amount of detergent in a detergent containerincluded in the washing apparatus to store the detergent. The determinerdetermines whether a second dispensing amount of the detergent fallsbelow a predetermined threshold based on the remaining amountinformation and a first dispensing amount. The first dispensing amountis set for one washing event in which the washing apparatus washes awashing target. The second dispensing amount is an amount of thedetergent scheduled to be dispensed into the washing apparatus in ascheduled first washing event. The information generator changes a thirddispensing amount to a fourth dispensing amount when the seconddispensing amount is determined to fall below the predeterminedthreshold. The third dispensing amount is an amount of the detergentdetermined based on the first dispensing amount and scheduled to bedispensed into the washing apparatus in at least one second washingevent scheduled to precede the first washing event. The fourthdispensing amount is equal to or greater than the predeterminedthreshold. The information outputter outputs information representingthe fourth dispensing amount to the washing apparatus to dispense thefourth dispensing amount of the detergent into the washing apparatus inthe at least one second washing event.

Further, a washing system according to another aspect of the presentdisclosure includes the above-described information processing apparatusand the washing apparatus in which the washing target is placed. Thewashing apparatus includes (i) the detergent container, (ii) a detergentdispenser that dispenses the detergent from the detergent container intoa washing space in which the washing target is washed, (iii) a remainingamount detector that detects the remaining amount of the detergent inthe detergent container and generates the remaining amount informationrepresenting the remaining amount, and (iv) a communicator thattransmits the remaining amount information to the information processingapparatus and receives the information representing the fourthdispensing amount. The detergent dispenser dispenses the fourthdispensing amount of the detergent into the washing space in the atleast one second washing event in accordance with the informationrepresenting the fourth dispensing amount.

Further, a washing apparatus according to another aspect of the presentdisclosure includes the detergent container, a detergent dispenser thatdispenses the detergent from the detergent container into a washingspace in which the washing target is washed, and a remaining amountdetector that detects the remaining amount of the detergent in thedetergent container and generates the remaining amount informationrepresenting the remaining amount. The detergent dispenser dispenses thefourth dispensing amount of the detergent into the washing space in theat least one second washing event in accordance with the informationrepresenting the fourth dispensing amount.

The information processing apparatus, the washing system, or the washingapparatus described above changes the dispensing amount of the detergentin the at least one second washing event executed before the firstwashing event. Therefore, the detergent is used up before the firstwashing event, or the amount of the detergent dispensed in the firstwashing event exceeds the predetermined threshold. Accordingly, it ispossible to empty the detergent container while dispensing the detergentby the amount desirable for washing. That is, it is possible to find atime suitable for washing the detergent container. Consequently, thewashing of the detergent container is prompted, thereby reducing therisk of malfunction of the washing apparatus.

Further, the washing apparatus may include a target detector thatdetects a weight of the washing target. The first dispensing amount andthe third dispensing amount may be set in accordance with the weight ofthe washing target. The detergent dispenser may dispense the firstdispensing amount or the third dispensing amount of the detergentcorresponding to the weight of the washing target or the fourthdispensing amount of the detergent into the washing space before startof the at least one second washing event.

According to the above-described configuration, it is possible tosuppress excess or deficiency in the amount of the detergent for theweight of the washing target. Accordingly, it is possible toappropriately wash the washing target.

Further, the washing apparatus may include a washing controller thatcontrols washing of the washing target based on at least one of a wateramount set in accordance with the weight of the washing target detectedby the target detector and a washing operation. The washing controllermay change at least one of the water amount and the washing operation inaccordance with the information representing the fourth dispensingamount.

According to the above-described configuration, it is possible to changeat least one of the amount of water to be used for washing and thewashing operation (rinsing or spinning, for example) in accordance withthe change in the amount of the detergent to be dispensed. Accordingly,it is possible to appropriately wash the washing target even if theamount of the detergent to be dispensed is changed.

As for the above-described configuration, the detergent dispenser mayinclude (i) a spare container that forms a spare storing space in whichthe detergent is temporarily stored, (ii) a first dispenser thatdispenses into the washing space the first dispensing amount or thethird dispensing amount of the detergent corresponding to the weight ofthe washing target before the start of the at least one second washingevent, (iii) a second dispenser that dispenses the detergent into thespare storing space from the detergent container, and (iv) a returnerthat returns the detergent in the spare storing space into the detergentcontainer from the spare container. The information generator maygenerate an evacuation request for requesting the detergent remaining inthe detergent container to be evacuated into the spare container aftercompletion of the at least one second washing event. The seconddispenser may evacuate the detergent into the spare container from thedetergent container after the completion of the at least one secondwashing event in accordance with the evacuation request.

According to the above-described configuration, the amount of detergentless than the predetermined threshold is evacuated, thereby making itpossible to create an opportunity to wash the detergent containerwithout changing the amount of the detergent to be dispensed in thesecond washing event. Further, the detergent evacuated in the sparecontainer is returned into the detergent container, thereby enablingefficient use of the detergent.

FIELD OF INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

The principle of the present embodiments is preferably used in a varietyof apparatuses that wash a washing target.

What is claimed is:
 1. An information processing method performed with aprocessor, the information processing method comprising: acquiring, froma washing apparatus, remaining amount information representing aremaining amount of detergent in a detergent container included in thewashing apparatus to store the detergent; determining whether a seconddispensing amount of the detergent falls below a predetermined thresholdbased on the remaining amount information and a first dispensing amount,the first dispensing amount being set for one washing event in which thewashing apparatus washes a washing target, and the second dispensingamount being an amount of the detergent scheduled to be dispensed intothe washing apparatus in a scheduled first washing event; changing athird dispensing amount to a fourth dispensing amount when the seconddispensing amount is determined to fall below the predeterminedthreshold, the third dispensing amount being an amount of the detergentdetermined based on the first dispensing amount and scheduled to bedispensed into the washing apparatus in at least one second washingevent scheduled to precede the first washing event, and the fourthdispensing amount being equal to or greater than the predeterminedthreshold; outputting information representing the fourth dispensingamount to the washing apparatus; and causing the washing apparatus todispense the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent in the at leastone second washing event.
 2. The information processing method accordingto claim 1, wherein the changing the third dispensing amount includesdetermining the fourth dispensing amount to empty the detergentcontainer after completion of the at least one second washing event. 3.The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein thefourth dispensing amount is greater than the first dispensing amount. 4.The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein thechanging the third dispensing amount includes determining the fourthdispensing amount of the detergent scheduled to be dispensed in the atleast one second washing event to make a dispensing amount of thedetergent in the first washing event equal to or greater than thepredetermined threshold and empty the detergent container aftercompletion of the first washing event.
 5. The information processingmethod according to claim 4, wherein the changing the third dispensingamount includes dividing the remaining amount of the detergentrepresented by the remaining amount information into predeterminedamounts for the first washing event and the at least one second washingevent, each of the predetermined amounts being equal to or greater thanthe predetermined threshold.
 6. The information processing methodaccording to claim 5, wherein the changing the third dispensing amountincludes (i) inquiring of a user a number of at least one washing eventset as the at least one second washing event, (ii) receiving the numberof the at least one washing event from the user, and (iii) calculatingthe fourth dispensing amount of the detergent to be dispensed in the atleast one second washing event based on the remaining amount informationbefore start of the at least one second washing event and the numberreceived from the user.
 7. The information processing method accordingto claim 4, wherein the fourth dispensing amount is less than the firstdispensing amount.
 8. The information processing method according toclaim 1, further comprising: determining to cause the washing apparatusto execute an evacuation operation of evacuating the detergent remainingin the detergent container into a predetermined spare storing spaceafter completion of the at least one second washing event; andrequesting the washing apparatus to execute the evacuation operationafter the completion of the at least one second washing event.
 9. Theinformation processing method according to claim 1, further comprising:determining to cause the washing apparatus to execute a third washingevent without the washing target and with the detergent remaining in thedetergent container after completion of the at least one second washingevent; and causing the washing apparatus to execute the third washingevent after the completion of the at least one second washing event. 10.The information processing method according to claim 1, furthercomprising: outputting a washing request for requesting the detergentcontainer to be washed after completion of the first washing event orthe at least one second washing event.
 11. An information processingapparatus comprising: an acquirer that acquires, from a washingapparatus, remaining amount information representing a remaining amountof detergent in a detergent container included in the washing apparatusto store the detergent; a determiner that determines whether a seconddispensing amount of the detergent falls below a predetermined thresholdbased on the remaining amount information and a first dispensing amount,the first dispensing amount being set for one washing event in which thewashing apparatus washes a washing target, and the second dispensingamount being an amount of the detergent scheduled to be dispensed intothe washing apparatus in a scheduled first washing event; an informationgenerator that changes a third dispensing amount to a fourth dispensingamount when the second dispensing amount is determined to fall below thepredetermined threshold, the third dispensing amount being an amount ofthe detergent determined based on the first dispensing amount andscheduled to be dispensed into the washing apparatus in at least onesecond washing event scheduled to precede the first washing event, andthe fourth dispensing amount being equal to or greater than thepredetermined threshold; and an information outputter that outputsinformation representing the fourth dispensing amount to the washingapparatus to dispense the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent intothe washing apparatus in the at least one second washing event.
 12. Awashing system comprising: the information processing apparatusaccording to claim 11; and the washing apparatus in which the washingtarget is placed, wherein the washing apparatus includes (i) thedetergent container, (ii) a detergent dispenser that dispenses thedetergent from the detergent container into a washing space in which thewashing target is washed, (iii) a remaining amount detector that detectsthe remaining amount of the detergent in the detergent container andgenerates the remaining amount information representing the remainingamount, and (iv) a communicator that transmits the remaining amountinformation to the information processing apparatus and receives theinformation representing the fourth dispensing amount, and wherein thedetergent dispenser dispenses the fourth dispensing amount of thedetergent into the washing space in the at least one second washingevent in accordance with the information representing the fourthdispensing amount.
 13. A washing apparatus comprising: the informationprocessing apparatus according to claim 11; the detergent container; adetergent dispenser that dispenses the detergent from the detergentcontainer into a washing space in which the washing target is washed;and a remaining amount detector that detects the remaining amount of thedetergent in the detergent container and generates the remaining amountinformation representing the remaining amount, wherein the detergentdispenser dispenses the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent intothe washing space in the at least one second washing event in accordancewith the information representing the fourth dispensing amount.
 14. Thewashing system according to claim 12, wherein the washing apparatusincludes a target detector that detects a weight of the washing target,wherein the first dispensing amount and the third dispensing amount areset in accordance with the weight of the washing target, and wherein thedetergent dispenser dispenses the first dispensing amount or the thirddispensing amount of the detergent corresponding to the weight of thewashing target or the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent into thewashing space before start of the at least one second washing event. 15.The washing apparatus according to claim 13, comprising a targetdetector that detects a weight of the washing target, wherein the firstdispensing amount and the third dispensing amount are set in accordancewith the weight of the washing target, and wherein the detergentdispenser dispenses the first dispensing amount or the third dispensingamount of the detergent corresponding to the weight of the washingtarget or the fourth dispensing amount of the detergent into the washingspace before start of the at least one second washing event.
 16. Thewashing system according to claim 14, wherein the washing apparatusincludes a washing controller that controls washing of the washingtarget based on at least one of a water amount set in accordance withthe weight of the washing target detected by the target detector and awashing operation, and wherein the washing controller changes at leastone of the water amount and the washing operation in accordance with theinformation representing the fourth dispensing amount.
 17. The washingapparatus according to claim 15, comprising a washing controller thatcontrols washing of the washing target based on at least one of a wateramount set in accordance with the weight of the washing target detectedby the target detector and a washing operation, wherein the washingcontroller changes at least one of the water amount and the washingoperation in accordance with the information representing the fourthdispensing amount.
 18. The washing system according to claim 14, whereinthe detergent dispenser includes (i) a spare container that forms aspare storing space in which the detergent is temporarily stored, (ii) afirst dispenser that dispenses into the washing space the firstdispensing amount or the third dispensing amount of the detergentcorresponding to the weight of the washing target before the start ofthe at least one second washing event, (iii) a second dispenser thatdispenses the detergent into the spare storing space from the detergentcontainer, and (iv) a returner that returns the detergent in the sparestoring space into the detergent container from the spare container,wherein the information generator generates an evacuation request forrequesting the detergent remaining in the detergent container to beevacuated into the spare container after completion of the at least onesecond washing event, and wherein the second dispenser evacuates thedetergent into the spare container from the detergent container afterthe completion of the at least one second washing event in accordancewith the evacuation request.
 19. The washing apparatus according toclaim 15, wherein the detergent dispenser includes (i) a spare containerthat forms a spare storing space in which the detergent is temporarilystored, (ii) a first dispenser that dispenses into the washing space thefirst dispensing amount or the third dispensing amount of the detergentcorresponding to the weight of the washing target before the start ofthe at least one second washing event, (iii) a second dispenser thatdispenses the detergent into the spare storing space from the detergentcontainer, and (iv) a returner that returns the detergent in the sparestoring space into the detergent container from the spare container,wherein the information generator generates an evacuation request forrequesting the detergent remaining in the detergent container to beevacuated into the spare container after completion of the at least onesecond washing event, and wherein the second dispenser evacuates thedetergent into the spare container from the detergent container afterthe completion of the at least one second washing event in accordancewith the evacuation request.